Burnsville, Minnesota – The community of Burnsville, Minnesota is mourning the loss of police officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge, along with paramedic and firefighter Adam Finseth, who were tragically killed in a shooting incident earlier this month. The suspect, Shannon Gooden, also died by suicide. In honor of their service and sacrifice, a public memorial service will be held on Wednesday morning at Grace Church in Eden Prairie.
The funeral service, scheduled to start at 11 a.m., will be broadcast live on WCCO-TV and CBS News Minnesota for those unable to attend in person. A map has been provided for the procession that will follow the service, traveling from Grace Church through various locations in Burnsville, including the police department and fire station.
Due to limited seating and parking, an overflow livestream viewing spot will be available at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. The community has shown an outpouring of support for the fallen first responders and their families, with businesses raising funds and organizing processions and vigils to honor their memory.
As preparations are made for the funeral service, road closures are expected in the area, affecting traffic patterns and daily routines. With weather conditions also playing a factor, supporters are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternative routes for their commute on Wednesday.
In the wake of this tragic event, the families of Elmstrand, Ruge, and Finseth have expressed gratitude for the support and love shown by the community. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, the focus remains on honoring the lives and service of the fallen first responders.
For those in need of emotional support or assistance, resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Hotline and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine are available for guidance and help. The community continues to come together to remember and honor the lives lost in this heartbreaking incident.